Italy threatens to close Schengen to Spain over migrant arrivals in Ceuta

Italy has declared its intention to suspend the Schengen space with Spain in response to thousands of migrants illegally entering the Spanish enclave of Ceuta from Morocco. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described the situation as a "threat" from clandestine immigration and stated that Italy would not remain passive.

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We are convening the competent bodies and, at the end of these meetings, we are ready to act, including with exceptional measures [...] such as the suspension of the Schengen space with Spain.

Meloni announced on social media that Italy was convening relevant authorities and was prepared to take "exceptional measures," including potentially suspending the Schengen agreement, to defend its borders and ensure citizen security. She emphasized a firm stance against illegal immigration, vowing to combat human traffickers and facilitate effective returns to countries of origin.

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Italy will not stand idly by.

In reaction, Spanish Foreign Minister José Luis Albares denounced Rome's position as "demagoguery." He announced that Italy's ambassador to Madrid would be summoned on Friday as a sign of protest. The diplomatic dispute underscores the deep divisions and escalating tensions between Italy and Spain regarding migration management and border control within the European Union.

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We are not going to take a step back on illegal immigration. Defending borders, combating human traffickers and ensuring effective returns to the country of origin will remain the line of action of this government.